Posted on19 June 2025,in

Why Is the Epley Maneuver Not Working for My Vertigo? Vertigo can feel like the world is spinning out of control, disrupting daily life and leaving you desperate for relief. For many, the Epley Maneuver is a go-to treatment, often recommended by healthcare providers to address benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), one of the most common causes of vertigo. But what happens when the Epley Maneuver doesn’t work? If you’re still experiencing dizziness, imbalance, or spinning sensations despite trying this technique, the root cause of your vertigo may lie elsewhere.

At Lavender Family Chiropractic in Sarasota, Florida, we’ve helped countless patients find lasting relief from vertigo through upper cervical chiropractic care, addressing a lesser-known but critical factor: upper cervical misalignment. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore why the Epley Maneuver may not be resolving your vertigo, how upper cervical misalignments can contribute to your symptoms, and how our specialized care can help you regain balance and live vertigo-free.

Understanding Vertigo and why the Epley Maneuver not working for my vertigo

Vertigo is more than just feeling dizzy—it’s a disorienting sensation where you or your surroundings seem to spin, often accompanied by nausea, balance issues, and difficulty focusing. While vertigo can stem from various causes, BPPV is frequently diagnosed. BPPV occurs when tiny calcium carbonate crystals (otoconia) in the inner ear become dislodged and float into the semicircular canals, disrupting the vestibular system’s ability to sense head movement accurately.

The Epley Maneuver is a proven treatment for BPPV (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo), a common cause of dizziness. This simple, at-home technique repositions displaced inner ear crystals to relieve vertigo symptoms. If performed correctly it can resolve some forms of vertigo, making it a go-to for vertigo relief. However, if symptoms persist, underlying issues like upper cervical misalignment may be the cause. Consult a professional, such as Lavender Family Chiropractic, for expert guidance. For lasting relief from vertigo and dizziness, explore our upper cervical chiropractic care in Sarasota to address root causes when the Epley Maneuver falls short.

The Epley Maneuver is a series of head and body movements designed to reposition these dislodged crystals back to their proper place in the inner ear. If your vertigo persists despite performing the Epley Maneuver correctly, it’s a sign that BPPV may not be the sole—or primary—cause of your symptoms and many times BPPV is over diagnosed. Studies show that 60% of BPPV is diagnosed incorrectly meaning that is is something deeper. Other potential culprits include:

Inner ear disorders like Meniere’s disease or vestibular neuritis
Neurological conditions such as migraines or brainstem issues
Cervical spine misalignments, particularly in the upper cervical region

At Lavender Family Chiropractic, we’ve found that upper cervical misalignment is a common but often overlooked contributor to vertigo, especially in cases where traditional treatments like the Epley Maneuver fail to provide relief.

Why the Epley Maneuver May Not Work for You

If the Epley Maneuver isn’t resolving your vertigo, several factors could be at play:

Misdiagnosis of BPPV: Not all vertigo is caused by BPPV. Conditions like Meniere’s disease, vestibular migraines, or cervicogenic vertigo (vertigo caused by neck issues) can mimic BPPV symptoms but won’t respond to the Epley Maneuver.
Incorrect Technique: The Epley Maneuver requires precise positioning and timing. If performed incorrectly at home or by an untrained provider, it may be ineffective.
Persistent Crystals: In some cases, the crystals may not fully reposition after the maneuver or may dislodge again due to underlying issues.
Other Contributing Factors: Trauma, poor posture, or upper cervical misalignments can exacerbate or independently cause vertigo, rendering the Epley Maneuver insufficient.
Complex Vertigo Cases: Some patients have multiple causes of vertigo, such as a combination of BPPV and cervical misalignment, requiring a multifaceted approach.

If you’ve tried the Epley Maneuver without success, it’s time to consider alternative causes and treatments. One of the most promising solutions for persistent vertigo is upper cervical chiropractic care, which addresses misalignments in the upper neck that can disrupt the nervous system and contribute to balance issues.

Upper Cervical Misalignment: A Hidden Cause of Vertigo

The upper cervical spine consists of the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae, located at the base of the skull. These vertebrae are unique because they support the head, protect the brainstem, and facilitate communication between the brain and body through the nervous system. Even a slight misalignment in this region—sometimes as small as a millimeter—can have profound effects on neurological function, blood flow, and balance.

How Upper Cervical Misalignment Causes Vertigo

Misalignments in the atlas or axis can contribute to vertigo in several ways:

Nervous System Interference: The brainstem, housed within the upper cervical spine, plays a critical role in regulating balance, coordination, and spatial orientation. A misalignment can irritate or compress the brainstem or nearby nerves, disrupting signals to the vestibular system and causing dizziness or spinning sensations.
Impaired Blood Flow: The vertebral arteries, which supply blood to the brain, pass through the upper cervical vertebrae. Misalignments can restrict blood flow, reducing oxygen and nutrients to the brain and inner ear, which may trigger vertigo.
Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: Misalignments can affect the soft tissues around the eustachian tubes, leading to fluid buildup or pressure changes in the inner ear, a common cause of vertigo.
Muscle Tension and Posture Issues: Misaligned vertebrae can cause muscle imbalances in the neck and shoulders, leading to tension that affects the vestibular system and exacerbates dizziness.

Common Causes of Upper Cervical Misalignment

Upper cervical misalignments often result from:

Trauma: Car accidents, whiplash, sports injuries, or even minor falls can shift the atlas or axis out of alignment.
Poor Posture: Prolonged slouching, forward head posture, or excessive screen time can stress the upper cervical spine.
Repetitive Strain: Activities like heavy lifting or repetitive neck movements can contribute to misalignment over time.
Stress: Chronic stress can lead to muscle tension, which may pull the vertebrae out of alignment.

Because these misalignments are subtle, they often go undetected in standard medical evaluations, leaving patients with persistent vertigo searching for answers.

Lavender Family Chiropractic: Your Solution for Vertigo Relief

At Lavender Family Chiropractic in Sarasota, we specialize in upper cervical chiropractic care, a gentle and precise approach that targets misalignments in the atlas and axis to restore balance and alleviate vertigo. Our clinic has helped countless patients who were told their vertigo was “untreatable” or who found no relief from treatments like the Epley Maneuver. Here’s how we do it:

Our Approach to Upper Cervical Care

Comprehensive Evaluation:
- We begin with a thorough consultation to understand your vertigo symptoms, medical history, and potential triggers, such as past injuries or trauma.
- Advanced diagnostic tools, including 3D CBCT imaging and paraspinal thermography, allow us to pinpoint misalignments in the upper cervical spine with unparalleled accuracy.
- Neurological and balance tests assess how misalignments may be affecting your vestibular system and overall nervous system function.
Precise, Gentle Adjustments:
- Unlike traditional chiropractic techniques that involve twisting or cracking, our upper cervical adjustments are low-force and highly specific.
- Using advanced instruments and tailored techniques, we gently realign the atlas and axis, minimizing discomfort and maximizing effectiveness.
- Adjustments are customized to your unique anatomy, ensuring safe and lasting results.
Holistic Care Plan:
- Beyond adjustments, we provide lifestyle recommendations to support your recovery, such as posture correction, stress management, and dietary changes to reduce inflammation and support neurological health.
- Regular follow-up visits help maintain alignment and prevent vertigo relapses.
Focus on Root Causes:
- Our goal is to address the underlying cause of your vertigo, not just mask symptoms. By restoring proper alignment, we enhance nervous system function, improve blood flow, and support the body’s natural healing abilities.

Why Choose Lavender Family Chiropractic?

Expertise: Our team, led by Dr. Lavender, is highly trained in upper cervical chiropractic care, with a deep understanding of the connection between the neck, nervous system, and vertigo.
State-of-the-Art Technology: We use cutting-edge imaging and diagnostic tools to ensure precision and safety in every adjustment.
Patient-Centered Care: We take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Proven Results: Patients like Tom, a 65-year-old who avoided surgery through our care, and Michael, who regained his ability to work and socialize, are living proof of our success.

Real Stories of Vertigo Relief

At Lavender Family Chiropractic, we’ve witnessed remarkable transformations in patients struggling with vertigo. Here are a few inspiring examples:

Tom’s Story: After years of severe vertigo and balance issues, Tom was told surgery was his only option. After just a few upper cervical adjustments at our clinic, his balance improved dramatically, and his vertigo became manageable without invasive procedures.
Michael’s Journey: Michael suffered from frequent dizzy spells that disrupted his work and social life. Our precise adjustments corrected an atlas misalignment, and within weeks, his vertigo episodes significantly reduced, allowing him to reclaim his confidence.
Debbie’s Recovery: Debbie endured vertigo episodes for a decade, relying on medications with little relief. After her first adjustment with an upper cervical chiropractor, her dizziness stopped, and she remained symptom-free a year later.

These stories highlight the power of upper cervical chiropractic care to address vertigo at its source, offering hope to those who’ve tried other treatments without success.

Complementary Strategies to Support Vertigo Recovery

While upper cervical chiropractic care is the cornerstone of our approach, combining it with natural remedies and lifestyle changes can enhance your recovery:

Dietary Adjustments:
- Increase intake of magnesium and vitamin B12, which support neurological health and may reduce vertigo symptoms.
- Stay hydrated and reduce caffeine, alcohol, and sodium, which can exacerbate dizziness.
Vestibular Rehabilitation:
- Balance-training exercises, guided by a professional, can rebuild confidence in movement and complement chiropractic care.
Mindfulness and Stress Management:
- Practices like meditation and yoga can calm the nervous system, improve posture, and reduce vertigo triggers.
Posture Correction:
- Ergonomic adjustments at work and home can prevent further strain on the upper cervical spine.

By integrating these strategies with regular upper cervical adjustments, you can maximize your chances of long-term vertigo relief.

Top 15 FAQs About Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care for Vertigo

To help you better understand how Lavender Family Chiropractic can address your vertigo, we’ve compiled answers to the most common questions we receive:

What is upper cervical chiropractic care?
Upper cervical chiropractic care focuses on the precise alignment of the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae, which protect the brainstem and facilitate nervous system communication. It uses gentle, low-force adjustments to correct misalignments.
How does upper cervical misalignment cause vertigo?
Misalignments in the atlas or axis can interfere with brainstem function, disrupt blood flow to the brain, or affect the inner ear, leading to dizziness and balance issues.
Why didn’t the Epley Maneuver work for my vertigo?
The Epley Maneuver is effective for BPPV but may not address other causes of vertigo, such as upper cervical misalignment, Meniere’s disease, or neurological issues.
How is upper cervical care different from traditional chiropractic?
Unlike traditional chiropractic, which may involve spinal twisting or cracking, upper cervical care is highly specific, using gentle adjustments targeted only at the upper neck.
Is upper cervical chiropractic safe?
Yes, our adjustments are low-force and tailored to your anatomy, making them safe for patients of all ages, including those with sensitive conditions.
What should I expect during my first visit?
Your first visit includes a detailed consultation, neurological and balance tests, and advanced imaging (like 3D CBCT) to assess your upper cervical spine.
How many adjustments will I need?
The number of adjustments varies, but most patients notice improvement within a few sessions. A typical treatment plan may involve 6–10 visits over 3 months.
Can upper cervical care help with Meniere’s disease?
Yes, by correcting misalignments that affect inner ear function, upper cervical care can reduce vertigo, tinnitus, and ear fullness associated with Meniere’s disease.
Will I need ongoing care?
Periodic maintenance adjustments (e.g., every 3 months) can help prevent relapses and maintain nervous system health.
What diagnostic tools do you use?
We use 3D CBCT imaging, paraspinal thermography, and neurological tests to identify misalignments with precision.
Can upper cervical care help with other symptoms?
Yes, it can also address migraines, neck pain, headaches, and balance issues by improving nervous system function.
Is upper cervical care covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by plan. Our team can help verify your insurance benefits before treatment begins.
How soon can I expect relief?
Many patients experience reduced vertigo after their first adjustment, though full relief may take several sessions depending on the severity of the misalignment.
Can children or seniors receive upper cervical care?
Absolutely. Our gentle techniques are safe and effective for all ages.
How do I schedule a consultation?
Contact Lavender Family Chiropractic at our Sarasota office by calling [insert phone number] or visiting [insert website] to book your appointment.

The Science Behind Upper Cervical Chiropractic for Vertigo

Research supports the effectiveness of upper cervical chiropractic care for vertigo. A retrospective study of eight patients with dizziness found that a combination of upper cervical adjustments (using the Orthospinology technique) and vestibular rehabilitation significantly reduced self-perceived dizziness handicap. Case studies have also documented improvements in Meniere’s disease symptoms, including vertigo, following upper cervical care.

The key lies in the craniocervical junction (CCJ), where the skull meets the upper cervical spine. Misalignments here can disrupt neurological signaling, blood flow, and vestibular function. By precisely correcting these misalignments, upper cervical chiropractors restore balance and alleviate vertigo symptoms, often where other treatments have failed.

Why Lavender Family Chiropractic Stands Out

Lavender Family Chiropractic is Sarasota’s leading upper cervical office, known for its commitment to excellence and patient success. Our advanced 3D CBCT imaging sets us apart, allowing us to visualize misalignments with unmatched clarity. Combined with our gentle adjustment techniques and holistic approach, we offer a path to vertigo relief that’s both effective and sustainable.

We understand the frustration of living with vertigo, especially when treatments like the Epley Maneuver don’t work. Our team is dedicated to helping you uncover the root cause of your symptoms and guiding you toward lasting relief. Whether your vertigo stems from a past injury, poor posture, or an undiagnosed misalignment, we’re here to help you transform your balance and reclaim your life.

Take the First Step Toward Vertigo Relief

If the Epley Maneuver hasn’t resolved your vertigo, don’t lose hope. An upper cervical misalignment could be the missing piece of the puzzle, and Lavender Family Chiropractic is uniquely equipped to address it. Our precise, gentle, and science-backed approach has helped patients across Sarasota and beyond find freedom from vertigo, without relying on medications or invasive procedures.

Ready to discover the difference upper cervical chiropractic care can make? Contact us today to schedule your consultation.

Schedule With Us!

Lavender Family Chiropractic in Sarasota Florida offers complimentary consultations to learn more about you. Click the link below!

https://intake.chirohd.com/new-patient-scheduling/724/lavender-family-chiropractic